EX-MINERS turned out in force to tell Energy Minister Brian Wilson their concerns about compensation claims.
At a frank meeting in Leigh Miners Welfare Club -- almost 10 years to the day since the closure of Leigh's last pits and on the eve of a reunion -- straight-talking claimants expressed their views.
Mr Wilson was armed with the latest figures on compensation applications as compensation seekers questioned settlement delays.
The breakdown for the Leigh, Wigan and Makerfield areas is: bronchitis applications 1,467, 799 and 975; full and final offers 187, 89 and 116; interim 351, 202 and 266; vibration white finger applications 598, 296 and 545; full and final 185, 76 and 140; interim 196, 107 and 201.
Leigh MP Andy Burnham who was at the Twist Lane meeting said: "Brian Wilson was sincere and genuine -- he said he will return in six months. I would hope this meeting will speed-up the situation."
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